Amelia Island Lighthouse, Florida

It took me a while to visit the oldest existing lighthouse in the state of Florida.

Amelia lighthouse is standing at the highest point on the island.  It was built in 1839 from bricks re-used from the Cumberland Island Lighthouse in Georgia. The tower was originally 50 ft, and in 1881 a lantern was installed increasing its height to 64 feet. The lens that was replaced in 1903 is still used in the lighthouse.

This light remains in operation, but the structure is now a private residence.  The ownership of the lighthouse was transferred from the US Coast Guard to the City of Fernandina Beach in 2001.  Access to the lighthouse is limited and is not open to public, but the grounds is open for viewing.

Our journey to this lighthouse started with my car riding a ferry boat. Wow, it's a milestone for my car to ride a ferry. We were excited but was surprised with the very short ride of 10 minutes for $6. It could have been more exciting if it was longer.

I had another great weekend with my son Joshua. The spontaneous ferry ride, a view of beautiful houses on the island, a smell of the fresh breeze from Fernandina beach and a peek of this historic and pretty lighthouse.

Exploring Amelia Island Lighthouse was a nice drive and a fun day. We ended up shopping at St. Augustine outlet mall.